Microaggressions: Death by a Hundred Slashes

By Marlie Heidelberg-Tillotson & Gelo Espinoza, Clarion Staff writers

It might sound like a compliment, but for many students — me included – these compliments have a deeper meaning. These compliments have another name: microaggressions. They are indirect, subtle, even sometimes unintentional discrimination against members of a marginalized group.

Microaggressions can happen to anyone, regardless of race. They can be subtle remarks or actions aimed at any group, whether it’s based on gender, religion, or ethnicity. However, it’s important to recognize that Black people, especially those in predominantly white spaces such as corporate jobs, political spaces, higher education, and any private organizations, are often targeted by these microaggressions.

Microaggressions can show up in many forms. A teacher might “accidentally” mix up the names of two Black students, even though they look nothing alike. A peer might jokingly ask, “Do you even get sunburned?” to a student with darker skin.

These interactions might not seem like a big deal to some, but their negativity adds up. Over time, microaggressions create an environment that feels less inclusive and more exhausting to navigate.

Consider hair. For Black students, hair is not just a style—it’s a form of expression and identity. Yet, it often becomes a target for microaggressions.

As someone who sometimes wears a wig, I’ve had a white teacher touch it without my consent, treating my hair like some sort of novelty. I’ve also been told things like, “I think you look better with your natural hair,” or “You should straighten it—I bet it’s so long when it’s straight.” Curly hair is seen as undesirable and these small comments reinforce the idea that straight hair is the standard.

Kennedy senior Gelo Espinoza, shared “I get a lot of stuff about my hair. Oh like ‘Can I touch your wild hair?’ and it’s mostly old white women. But white Men say that I should just get a buzz cut and that it would ‘look more professional’. I’ve been micro aggressed my whole life so unless thye call me a slur I won’t fight them but I will look at them weirdly. Like give them a stank face.”

Comments like these cross personal boundaries and perpetuate stereotypes about what’s considered “acceptable” or “professional” hair. These moments aren’t just uncomfortable — they’re draining, especially when they happen daily.

One of the hardest parts about microaggressions is that they’re often tricky to address. You might get told, “I didn’t mean it like that,” or even, “You’re overreacting.”   

These responses can make you second-guess yourself and leave the behavior unchecked. It’s a common tactic: turning the blame back on you, as if you’re the problem for speaking up. But here’s the truth: a person’s intent doesn’t erase their impact. Whether or not someone “meant it,” their words can leave lasting scars.

I came to Kennedy from another high school where racism was often blatant, and I was constantly reminded of my differences. Any time I expressed frustration, I’d hear excuses like, “They were raised that way,” or, “That’s just life—get over it.” 

It’s exhausting and isolating, but I want anyone dealing with these experiences to know: your feelings are valid. 

If you’re on the receiving end of microaggressions, know that it’s okay to speak up when something doesn’t sit right with you. 

It’s also okay to take a step back and prioritize your mental health. 

Finding allies—whether they’re friends, teachers, or counselors—can make a big difference. 

Don’t let anyone downplay what you’re going through. It really is that serious.

I asked Gelo Espinoza if he thinks microaggressions contribute to, or perpetuate, broader societal issues like racism and discrimination.

“Yeah," he said. "It makes it feel more normalized to casually say racist stuff and pass it off as a joke.”

First, if someone tells you that something you said or did was hurtful, don’t get defensive or brush it off. Instead: listen, apologize, and reflect. Think about your words—would you compliment a white student by saying they’re “so well-spoken”? No? Then don’t say it to a Black student.

Similarly, resist the urge to comment on Black hair. Whether it’s a wig, braids, or natural curls, their hair is none of your business. They know what’s best for them. If you catch yourself wanting to make a comment or ask a question rooted in stereotypes, pause and think about why. Educating yourself and unlearning biases is part of the process, and making a mistake doesn’t make you a bad person — it’s how you respond and grow that matters.

This article isn’t here to call anyone racist. It’s here to educate, to help you understand how your words and actions might affect others, and to encourage you to break the cycle of bias and discrimination.

As high school students, we have a unique opportunity to create change. It starts with awareness. Our words and actions matter. By being more thoughtful and intentional, we can make our schools safer and more supportive places for everyone which in turn can help our world become more inclusive.